Austin Peay defensive back Montez Carlton (11) fight for the ball against Western Kentucky during last year's season opener at L.T. Smith Stadium in Bowling Green.

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The value of an explosive, reliable return man won't be overlooked as Austin Peay searches for ways to improve on its 2-9 record from a year ago.

First-year coach Kirby Cannon and his staff are holding "open tryouts" for returners in practice, looking for speedy players capable of scoring if they can find a crease. A major emphasis for the Govs will be outplaying their opponents on special teams, an area where they struggled last season.

"We're looking for a place to give us an extra play," Cannon said. "So all the special teams are being emphasized where we have a special teams goal to set up a score ...